Babies. (1) This clause applies to babies who are less than 12 weeks old.
Babies. All babies should be routinely monitored whilst in skin to skin contact with mother or father. Observation to include: • Checking that the baby’s position is such that a clear airway is maintained– observe respiratory rate and chest movement. Listen for unusual breathing sounds or absence of noise from the baby • Colour - the baby should be assessed by looking at the whole of the baby’s body as the limbs can often be discoloured first. Subtle changes to colour indicate changes in the baby’s condition • Tone – the baby should have a good tone and not be limp or unresponsive • Temperature – ensure the baby is kept warm during skin contact. Always listen to parents and respond immediately to any concerns raised G:\Maternity\Shared\Infant Feeding\Policies\HSIB action plan final.docx Support for breastfeeding – In the early days • Mothers will be enabled to achieve effective breastfeeding according to their needs (including appropriate support with positioning and attachment, hand expression, and understanding signs of effective feeding). This will continue until the mother and baby are feeding confidently. • Mothers will have the opportunity to discuss breastfeeding in the first few hours after birth as appropriate to their own needs and those of their baby. This discussion will include information on responsive feeding and feeding cues. • A formal feeding assessment will be carried out using the Unicef Breastfeeding assessment as often as required in the first week with a minimum of two assessments to ensure effective feeding and the well-being of mother and baby. This assessment will include a discussion with the mother to reinforce what is going well and, where necessary, develop an appropriate plan of care to address any issues that have been identified. • Mothers with a baby on the neonatal unit will be supported to express as effectively as possible and encouraged to express at least 8 times in 24 hours, including once during the night. They will be shown how to express by both hand and pump. • Before discharge home, breastfeeding mothers will be given information about recognizing effective feeding and where to call for additional help if they have any concerns. This leaflet will also contain informed about the local support services for breastfeeding e.g. Proactive Management of Breastfeeding, BF support leaflet/ baby café, National Breastfeeding helpline number 0300 100 0212 o This will be done both verbally and in writing (in paper or electronic form...
